Spy Shots: Triumph’s Liquid-Cooled Engine in a Bobber Prototype

Is Triumph increasing the models in its retro motorcycle families while updating its parallel-Twin?

Since these spy shots from BMH Images will be the third set of Triumph Bonneville-based photos we’ve published this year, we had to pause for a short discussion about whether we were being gamed by Triumph into actually paying to do PR work for them. However, the bike in question is so cool that we decided our readers need to see it. Other than the styling cues (which we’ll get to next), the photos confirm what we already know, don’t answer the questions we already have, and open up a host of new things to ponder. Such is the nature of crystal ball-gazing…

First things first, though: A Triumph bobber? Who would’ve thought? Well, a quick trip to your favorite web search engine reveals tons of photos of homegrown and kit Triumph-based bobbers. Seems like Triumph wants to cut out the middleman by offering bobbers directly to customers. Maybe, however, this is a sign that Triumph has plans for beefing up its Classic and Cruiser lines with the release of the new liquid-cooled mill in 2016. Regardless, this bobber shows that Triumph is looking at all aspects of its retro families perhaps with an eye on expanding it further.

Our two previous collections of spy shots have clearly shown two Bonnevilles – though with slightly different running gear (single vs. dual front discs). This set, however, with what looks to be a 19-inch front wheel appears as on the Speedmaster, though spoked instead of cast. (While the wheel could be the 18-inch Thruxton component, the bobber’s visually smaller disc, when compared to the wheel, leads us to believe this is not the case.) The radiator featured quite clearly in a couple shots show that liquid-cooling is certain for 2016. How the cooling liquid will be circulated remains open to speculation, with an electric pump seeming like the most logical solution. The parallel-Twin motor has surely grown in size from its present 867cc, though we’ve yet to confirm its actual displacement. Bet on something between 1000cc and 1200cc.

While this is the best shot we’ve seen of Triumph’s new liquid-cooled engine, we still can’t be certain what the new displacement will be.

The tractor-style seat for the rider follows current customizing trends seen in options for the BMW R nineT or in more classic designs, like the BMW R27. Toss in a hardtail-looking swingarm with a skinny fender supported by stylish tubular brackets, and you’ve got a formidable bobber package. The midships peg location slots them between the standard location of the Bonnie and the forward location of the Speedmaster.

Several clues point to the bobber being more than just a styling exercise. First, the overall polish of the bike makes it appear to be a development project nearing completion. Take a look at the brake pedal and the slot to presumably to allow testing varied pedal locations prior to beginning the production of the final parts. The photo from the rear shows a seat badge plus brake and signal lights that lack much of the cobbiness frequently seen in early product development. (For an example, take a look at our Street Tracker Spy photos.) Additionally, the bar end mirrors are not currently in the Triumph accessory catalog.

The Triumph bobber appears to be well along in its development, but we have no hint as to when or if it will be officially revealed.

Still, there are signs that the bobber isn’t ready for prime time, yet. The shorty mufflers don’t look finished. Note the yellowing of the chrome and the melted boot rubber that calls out for some additional heat-shielding. Also, the swingarm pivot has threads for a cover, but no cover is currently present.

So, bobber fans now have another reason to look forward to the show season later this year. Will, Triumph officially reveal the bobber at EICMA? Or will we have to wait until Intermot 2016? We’ll bring you the news as soon as we get it!